a file that is constantly moving accross a large network. in order to download the file, the downloading file segments must at the same time be uploaded to other users requesting the file. torrents are tagged with a unique ID so that any particular torrent can be located from anywhere on the network with the correct software.

I need to search the torrents for some practice testing software before I go to take my CompTIA A+ Certification exam.

further to current definition, it should be noted that over the past 12 months or so, there has been a surge in torrent sites offering "free downloads" but where you have to pay a monthly fee to join. Some of these sites claim to be anonymous (bullsh*t by the way).
All these sites are simply mirrors of freely-available sites, carrying links to .torrent files for use with BitTorrent. The pay-to-join sites mostly don't even host any .torrent files themselves (that's how they get around the law) and this, in turn, means if you are actually stupid enough to shell out for any of these sites, you have lower intelligence than the average boiled sprout. Go shoot yourself in the gut, right now, to ensure you can't produce any spawn stupider than yourself.

"This great free 100% legal (yeah right!) downloads site is definitely worth the money to join. Because, y'know, we aren't just linking to torrents you can find for free elsewhere.
Look, just give us all your money, dumbass"

The most kickass way of sharing files. People upload the pieces of the requested file they have, and in turn, download the parts of the file they don't have. All those other porn-filled RIAA-controlled P2P networks can SUCK IT.

Torrent files are pretty much the best file-sharing method, hands down.

A torrent is a constantly moving file over a large network. typically pirated movies, torrents work by people downloading a small beginning file, and then using a program (ie: transmission) to finish it. this program works by downloading the parts that you don't have from other people doing the same thing, and uploading the parts that others need. most torrent's contents are illegal. the current fine for having a copyrighted movie (most torrents) is up to $250,000 and/or up to 5 years in jail.

They didn't have the movie I wanted at blockbuster, so I downloaded the torrent.